Therapies in more detail: Deep tissue
This treatment is a massage aimed to get to the deeper structures of the body tissue; the tendons, fascia and muscle.
It is a treatment which uses deeper pressure to target specific points and problem areas, by stretching the fascia and muscle, which helps to release tension and give you a more thorough ‘worked-on’ feeling.
Using a deeper pressure to the massage can break down chronic muscle contraction that might have been built up over time, and by doing this it can enable and encourage freedom of movement.
Although this treatment generally has more pressure in comparison to others, it is still important to let the therapist know how the pressure is during the massage, as it shouldn’t be painful.
The aim of the massage is to get into the areas you need working on more specifically, especially if these areas are causing you discomfort, but in a way that doesn’t cause you pain and overall the massage is still felt as relaxing and an enjoyable experience.
A piece of advice I would give is that if you are clenching or tightening your muscles because the pressure is too much for you, then you need a lighter pressure as the massage won’t be productive. You need to be fully relaxed for the best results!
When deep tissue massage is given over a period of time, it can encourage more movement, correct postural problems, act as a method of stress-relief, manage chronic pain conditions and promote circulation throughout the body.
It is also extremely beneficial for athletes during training to save muscles from injury.
I think deep tissue massage is one of the best treatments to give (and also receive!).
If you know you prefer a firm pressure to your massages, then this is probably the right treatment for you.As always, discuss with your therapist beforehand what you want out of the treatment, and communicate throughout, to ensure you are comfortable.
The best treatment is one in which you have control, and feel safe in the hands of your therapist.
With health and love,
Ali